This paper highlights the reduction of capital stock on Brazilian privately and publicly-held companies, being presented in two parts. Part One is integraded by Chapters One and Two, which present an overview of the matter, and Part Two, which present specific issues related to each cause of reduction of capital stock. On Chapter One, it is presented a short history of capital stock with the purpose of relating it with its productivity function on the first companies, instead of relating it with the function of guarantee for creditors, as a traditional doctrine usually explains its origin. Besides, it is presented a general concept of capital stock, its categories, principles and functions, with the goal of preaparing further discussions on its reduction. On Chapter Two, it is presented a general concept of reduction of capital stock and the authors stand point of the two main principles applicable to it: equal treatment and creditors protection. The analysis moves ahead to categorize the cases of reduction of capital stock in accordance with their causes or the effects on companies assets. On Chapter Three, the author presents the two main causes of capital reduction in Brazil: loss and excess (of assets). Besides it is presented the procedure to accomplish a reduction of capital stock on each case. To fully understand this chapter it is mandatory to be aware of the general concept of capital stock, its categories, principles and functions, as well as the general concept of reduction of capital stock and its principles. On Chapter Four, it is brieftly presented the other causes of reduction of capital stock on Brazilian law, as well as the main discussions that surround them.

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